Use of the title "Doctor" or "Dr." by certain healthcare providers

A. No healthcare provider, while providing direct patient care, shall present himself, whether orally or in writing, to a patient using the title of "Doctor" or the abbreviation of "Dr." as a prefix to his name without using a suffix to denote either the type of professional license held by the healthcare provider or the degree to which he is entitled by reason of his diploma of graduation from a school or other entity, professional or otherwise. B. Any healthcare provider who uses the title of "Doctor" or the abbreviation of "Dr." in any manner inconsistent with the provisions of this Section may be sanctioned in accordance with rules promulgated by the licensing board for that provider's profession or occupation. C. No violation of a provision of this Section shall constitute false personation as established by R.S. 14:112. D. For the purposes of this Section, "healthcare provider" shall mean a person, partnership, limited liability company, or corporation licensed or certified in this state to provide healthcare or professional services as a registered or licensed practical nurse, certified registered nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, licensed midwife, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, certified athletic trainer, or physician assistant. E. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to a physician as defined by Medicare pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1395x(r).